Powers for dealing with unauthorised development and encampments consultation

The Government consultation Powers for dealing with unauthorised development and encampments, looked at existing enforcement powers relating to moving unauthorised encampments, and queried whether different powers are needed. The MA carried out a brief survey, asking about the three powers which can be used in magistrates' courts, as referenced in the consultation. These powers are to either empower local authorities to remove campers, bring criminal prosecutions if people fail to comply with official orders or the charging of trespassing as an aggravated offence. Responses confirmed initial input from policy committee members that magistrates rarely see these powers and our response was submitted on this basis.